Prepare for stiffer measures — Kagwe announces 22 more cases of COVID-19 in Kenya

Health CS Mutahi Kagwe on Wednesday afternoon announced that 22 more people had tested positive for Coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 81.

Kagwe said 21 of the 22 were already in quarantine, saying had the government not taken strict measures, it would have been worse.

Asked about a possible lockdown, the CS said, “There is nothing that is not on the table. We need to prepare substantially before we take any steps.

“It is our responsibility as government to ensure we also protect those who are in marginalized areas.”

Kagwe further warned that due to the fast-rising number of those who are testing positive, Kenyans should prepare for stiffer measures.

On the two patients who have recovered fully, Brenda Cherotich and Brian Orinda, the CS urged Kenyans to continue following the directives issued by the Ministry of Health.

“The virus is here with us and it has caused very many deaths.

“Please quarantine yourself if you have been travelling or you are not feeling well,” he said.

Asked about movement of food trucks during the curfew, the CS maintained that the trucks are allowed to move from one point to another.

“Food trucks are free to move in the evening and police are aware,” he reiterated.

Kagwe also thanked those observing the curfew saying it was for their own good.

He also extended his gratitude to employers who have been releasing their employees early.

The CS maintained that Kenyans should continue observing high standards of hygiene and practice social distancing.

Ministry of Health Director-General Dr Patrick Amoth also shed light on the treatment that was being administered to COVID-19 patients at Mbagathi saying they are using Chloroquine and Azithromycin.

“The one patient who is in ICU is on Chloroquine and Azithromycin. He is responding well but we cannot conclude that the combination of the two treats Coronavirus.

“We need to work with a bigger sample to reach that conclusion,” he said.